IHG expands footprint in Africa with iconic Crowne Plaza brand coming to Lagos

IHG expands footprint in Africa with iconic Crowne Plaza brand coming to Lagos

IHG Hotels & Resorts, a global leader in hospitality, has signed an agreement to bring the Crowne Plaza brand to Lagos, Nigeria.

The Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja, a 119-room property, will open in early 2028 through a franchise partnership with Watercress Hotel International Limited.

The new luxury hotel will be operated by Valor Hospitality Partners, a global hospitality management firm and one of IHG’s long-standing partners.

This signing marks a significant step in IHG’s strategic expansion across Africa and highlights the company’s commitment to strengthening its presence in key urban centres across the continent.

Located in the bustling Ikeja district—a central hub for administration, aviation, and commerce—Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja will offer exceptional connectivity to Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Alausa Secretariat, Ikeja City Mall, and various embassies and corporate offices, according to a statement obtained by Newstrends on Tuesday.

The hotel’s prime location also provides easy access to Lagos’ cultural and coastal attractions, including Nike Art Gallery, Tarkwa Bay Beach, and Elegushi Beach, making it well-suited for both business and leisure travelers.

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The hotel will introduce Crowne Plaza’s next-generation features to West Africa for the first time, including the brand’s signature Plaza Workspace—a modern, design-focused environment that encourages collaboration and informal meetings. Guests will also enjoy WorkLife Rooms, thoughtfully designed to optimize productivity, relaxation, and comfort.

Haitham Mattar, Managing Director, IHG Hotels & Resorts, India, Middle East & Africa, said, “Lagos is one of Africa’s most influential commercial and cultural centres, and we are pleased to expand our presence in this strategic market with the signing of Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja.

“Nigeria continues to show strong potential for growth, and Lagos – as a key economic and transportation hub – aligns well with our long-term development strategy across the region.”

Samuel Ayinde, Executive Director, at Watercress Hotel International Limited, added: “We are proud to partner with IHG Hotels & Resorts to introduce the globally recognised Crowne Plaza brand to Lagos. Our vision for this property is to create a landmark hotel that reflects the energy and ambition of Lagos, while not only meeting but exceeding the international standards expected by modern travellers. This collaboration aligns with our long-term goals to contribute to Nigeria’s hospitality landscape through innovation, quality, and guest-centric experiences.”

Upon opening, Crowne Plaza Lagos Ikeja will join a global network of more than 400 Crowne Plaza hotels and resorts. The brand is recognised for its contemporary design and guest-centric approach, helping travellers maintain balance between work and leisure, and making it a preferred choice for today’s professionals and global travellers.

The transaction was advised by Olayiwola Matthew, Founder of HeroPlus Hospitality Consulting, who served as development advisor and hospitality consultant to Watercress Hotel International Limited, providing strategic support in brand selection, market feasibility, operator negotiations, and transaction execution.